There’s nothing quite like noticing those first few signs of indigestion to send your day hurtling downhill. Whether you’re afflicted by a burning sensation in your chest or end up feeling bloated, the discomfort that comes with a bout of indigestion is far from pleasant.

For those with recurrent issues, the first port of call is usually medicine – the most common being omeprazole. But according to a new study, there’s a natural alternative which could provide just as much relief as the medical alternative – turmeric.

Known for its signature deep, golden-orange colour, turmeric has long been used as a medicinal remedy for indigestion in south-east Asia, but experts have not understood how well it works compared to traditional drugs. That is, until now. 

According to a new study published in the journal BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine, a natural active compound found inside turmeric – curcumin – could be just as effective at reducing excess stomach acid and treating indigestion as its prescription-based counterpart.

The double-blind, placebo-controlled trial saw 206 patients aged 18-70 with recurrent stomach upset randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups. The first group only consumed turmeric (two 250mg capsules of curcumin four times a day), while the second only consumed omeprazole (one 20mg capsule a day). The third group took both curcumin and omeprazole.

The patients were assessed at 28 days and then again at 56, and the results were clear: patients in all three groups experienced a similar improvement in symptoms. 

Of course, the sample size for this study is relatively small, and more research is needed to determine whether consuming turmeric – as opposed to pure curcumin – can offer the same benefits.

However, the potential digestive benefits aside, there are many reasons why adding turmeric into your diet could be a good idea. Alongside being a powerful anti-inflammatory (making it great for post-workout soreness), it’s also an antioxidant, meaning it helps the body to fight harmful free radicals.

There is also a myriad of ways to add turmeric to your diet. Supplements – like Kurk – are great for making things simple, but if you want to go down the natural route, you can add turmeric to everything from vegetable curries to potato salads, soups and even lattes.  

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